Therapeutic influence of some dietary articles on gut microbiota in the pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis (Amavata) – A review

BACKGROUND: Amavata is a chronic immune‑inflammatory systemic disorder caused by the formation of Ama and its association with Vata at Kaphasthana (joints) and can be simulated with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Published evidences show that treatment indicated in Amavata is effective in RA. Increased inflammatory status in RA is suggestive of gut dysbiosis involving gut microbiota (GM). AIM: The aim of the present study was to analyze the influence of diet on GM of RA patients based on Pathya (dietary advice) mentioned for Amavata. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Laghutrayis such as Bhavaprakasha Samhita, Madhava Nidana and Sharangadhara Samhita, Bhaishajya Ratnavali and Nighantus (Sanskrit glossary) such as Raja Nighantu, Bhavaprakasha Nighantu and Yogaratnakara, Ashtanga Hridaya also different databases were reviewed for Pathya of Amavata. Different databases such as PubMed, Scopus, DHARA, Google Scholar, Science Direct were searched with research papers establishing the role of nonnutritive bioactive components in horse gram, barley, garlic, ginger, drumstick leaves, cow urine and buttermilk in the management of RA were also reviewed. It was found that Pathya influences on the GM by lowering or inhibiting inflammatory markers such as interleukin‑6 (IL‑6), 17 and leukotrines through Bowman‑Birk inhibitors and polyphenolic compounds. Among them, Takra is already a proven probiotic. Gomutra augments B and T lymphocytes, IL‑1 and IL‑2, strengthening the immune system. CONCLUSION: It was concluded that Pathya Ahara mentioned for Amavata have a direct link with GM of RA patients. Even though the pharmacological actions have been clinically proven/practised, this review creates evidence for its scientific basis.